CAPE TOWN, April 23 (Xinhua) -- South Africa on Thursday joined the global celebration of World Book and Copyright Day with a renewed call for practical action to promote reading across communities.
South African Department of Basic Education, together with its partners, hosted commemorative activities in Cape Town to promote a culture of reading, celebrate authors and creators, and highlight the importance of protecting intellectual property.
Held under the theme "Read, Make Your Star Shine," the program included storytelling sessions, guided reading activities, author engagements, book exhibitions, book distribution, and cultural performances, with a strong focus on indigenous languages.
In a statement, the basic education department said the day serves as a reminder that reading is the foundation of learning, noting that it is positioned as both a celebration and an intervention to address reading challenges and expand access to books.
"Participation does not require large-scale events; simple actions can make a meaningful difference," it added, urging communities to read at home, support reading clubs, visit libraries, and share books.
The department also emphasized that "building a culture of reading requires sustained effort beyond a single day," calling on families, schools, and communities to play an active role in fostering reading habits.
Proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in 1995, World Book and Copyright Day is celebrated annually on April 23 to promote reading, publishing, and copyright protection. ■
